The crowd reaction from the ongoing taping of WWE SmackDown seemingly shows that Sami Zayn‘s run as the new Undisputed WWE Champion is off to a huge start.
Just days after stunning the wrestling world by defeating Cody Rhodes and Gunther in a Triple Threat Match at Night of Champions 2026, Zayn made his first appearance as champion during WWE SmackDown in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Although the episode hasn’t aired yet, videos from fans inside the arena have already gone viral, showing the reaction he received.
Fans give Sami Zayn a loud welcome after his long-awaited title victory
The moment Sami Zayn’s entrance music played, the crowd exploded. Fans jumped to their feet, sang along to his theme, waved their hands in the air, and cheered loudly as blue lasers and spotlights lit up the arena.
The reaction showed just how popular Zayn has become after finally winning WWE’s biggest prize. After the victory in Riyadh, Zayn celebrated with the fans and gave an emotional speech in the ring. It was one of the biggest moments of his WWE career and officially made him the top star on SmackDown heading into the summer.
The huge ovation in Atlantic City is even more meaningful when you look at where Zayn’s character was just a few weeks ago.
During his United States Championship reign, Zayn displayed a more unpredictable side. After beating Carmelo Hayes for the title, he entered a heated feud with Trick Williams and often crossed the line between a good guy and a bad guy.
Instead of turning fully heel, Zayn let fans decide how they wanted to see him. Because of that, reactions were mixed depending on the city.
But looks like things have changed after he won the Undisputed WWE Championship. His long journey to the top has brought him back to his familiar role as WWE’s underdog hero. Based on the crowd reaction in Atlantic City, fans are behind him once again.
Read More: Sami Zayn’s First Appearance as WWE Champion Announced
